Nicotine pouches
A Canadian study of 17 to 27 year-olds found about a third have tried nicotine pouches, up from under one in ten in 2022, which makes nicotine dependence a real but manageable concern for parents.
Should I worry?
Nicotine pouches are small, discreet and smokeless, so there is no smell or smoke to give them away. The risk is nicotine dependence, which can build quietly in a teen. Signs to notice include irritability or restlessness that eases after time alone, small pouches or tins in pockets or bags, and a sudden interest in having money for something unexplained. If you notice any of this, stay calm and ask open questions first. If your teen is already using them, a doctor or pharmacist can help them cut down or stop without shame.
How to join in
Nicotine pouches are small packets placed between the lip and gum, and they are marketed as a cleaner alternative to smoking or vaping. Teens may find them appealing because they are easy to hide, come in many flavours and seem less risky than cigarettes. Because use has climbed so fast, odds are your teen has heard of them or seen friends try them. Ask what they have seen at school or online, and listen before you share your own view.
Try saying
“I read that a lot of young people are trying nicotine pouches now. Have you heard about them, or seen anyone at school using them? I'm not upset, I just want to know what you think, and if you ever want to quit something, I'll help.”
If you’re worried
If your teen is using nicotine pouches and wants to stop, a family doctor or pharmacist can offer support without judgment. Kids Help Phone is there for teens at 1-800-668-6868 or by texting 686868. If a young child has swallowed a pouch, call your provincial poison centre (Centre antipoison du Québec in Québec), and call 911 if they are in distress.
Sources
From Mistlift, mistlift.app. Plain talk about what kids are into online.